The Internet of Things (IoT) – What does it all mean?

The Internet of Things (IoT) – What does it all mean?

In recent months and years, there’s been a lot of chatter surrounding something called The Internet of Things, or IoT for short. Now while it may sound like it’s very technical or complicated, it’s really not, and in this blog we’re going to do a quick deep-dive and examine exactly what IoT is, what it’s capable of, and what we can expect from it in the future.

What is the Internet of Things?

Put simply, the Internet of Things involves extending Internet connectivity to other platforms and devices beyond computers (both laptops and desktops), tablets and smartphones. This creates a network of devices – including vehicles, appliances, and otherwise – that are all connected, enabling them to share data, connect, and interact with each other.

And in 2019, IoT is more ubiquitous than ever before, with more connected devices on earth than there are humans, and 20 million devices expected to exist by the end of 2020. The fantasy of a ‘Smart Home’ or ‘Smart City’ is no longer something that could happen in the distant future – it’s happening right now, and has been happening on a grander scale with each passing year.

What can it do?

The main advantage of IoT on a grand scale – when it’s applied to the infrastructure of a city that’s looking to become ‘Smart’, for example – is that it allows for an easier and great collection of data than in the past. This data can work towards making sure that city services, such as waste management or traffic control, are doing the best possible job at making life in the city easier for residents and visitors.

On a smaller scale, however, IoT is equally as important, and it is quickly becoming a major part of the average household around the world. For example, devices like the Amazon Echo or Google Home are capable of connecting to ‘Smart’ light switches & lightbulbs, which allows users to turn on the lights in their home by simply talking. These devices can also connect to televisions and home entertainment centres, enabling them to be voice-activated. We also live in an age where you can control your home’s security system, heating/cooling system, and even baby monitoring systems to all be connected and accessible through your smartphone. Truly, IoT is the way of the future!

What comes next?

There is virtually no way of knowing just how much IoT-enabled devices can be capable of as we move towards 2020 and beyond. As recently as a decade ago, no one could have predicted just how advanced cellular phones would become, and now, they’re an integral part of life as we know it. The same can be expected for IoT, and the next decade will go a long way in showcasing just what this exciting technology is capable of!